I’m sure this is not the first time you’ve heard this, but I need to express some concern about your Best of Buffalo contest. Given your editorial comments preceding the “People” category, I know that you are aware that there is something fundamentally not right about nominating our neighbors who are mentally ill for an award called “Weirdest Resident.”

The fact that these folks appear in public in ways that seem unusual to your readers does not indicate that they’re on display for the public’s amusement…These people are not weird: on some days this is their “normal.”

And tell us, honestly, will these “weird” nominees be invited to your May 4th awards ceremony? Will you give Jean a plaque to mount on the grill of her shopping cart? Perhaps the “Lady in White” would like one to swaddle in plastic bags and carry? Will you personally approach them on Elmwood Avenue and say: “You are truly one of Buffalo’s weirdest people. Please honor us with your presence at our awards party.” Of course you won’t, because you realize that that would be profoundly insulting.

While I can’t hold your newspaper responsible for the opinions of its many astute readers, I do hold it responsible for making editorial choices that participate in and perpetuate a culture of disrespect for people with mental illnesses. A progressive paper would realize that publishing this list is an affront to the dignity of others, who might be better “celebrated” by leaving them in peace.

Peter Ross Firestone
Buffalo

Artvoice reserves the right to edit letters for content and length. Shorter letters have a better chance at being published in their entirety. Please include your name, hometown, and contact number. E-mail letters to: editorial@artvoice.com or write to: Artvoice Letters, 810 Main Street, Buffalo, NY 14202